There’s something about a scenic drive that just relaxes the soul. Maybe it’s the winding roads, the mountain views, or the trees that line the way. Whatever it is, Gatlinburg has some of the best scenic drives around. So if you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening, take one of these drives. Trust us – you won’t regret it!
1. Roaring Fork Motor Trail / Scenic Drives In Gatlinburg
The Roaring Fork Motor Trail is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The trail is a 6-mile loop that winds through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning scenery, including waterfalls, mountain streams, and old-growth forests. The trail is also home to wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. The Roaring Fork Motor Trail is easy to access from Gatlinburg and is open year-round.
- Plenty of views of mountains, streams, mills, and other historic buildings
- A one-way, scenic loop that is 6 miles long
- Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook Is A Must See
2. Foothills Parkway West / Scenic Drives In Gatlinburg
The Foothills Parkway West is one of the most popular attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The parkway winds its way through the Great Smoky Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can drive the parkway for miles, stopping at overlooks to take in the breathtaking scenery. The parkway is also popular with hikers and cyclists, who often use it as a gateway to access the many trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely drive or an adventurous hike, Foothills Parkway West has something for everyone.
- Offers unobstructed views of the Smokies to the south and the Tennessee Valley to the north
- This National Parkway spans 33 miles
- FootHills Parkway West Overlook # 1
3. Newfound Gap Road / Scenic Drives In Gatlinburg
Firstly, Newfound Gap Road is one of the most popular scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains. The road winds its way through the mountains, offering stunning views of the peaks and valleys. There are several pull-offs where visitors can stop to take photos or simply enjoy the view. Newfound Gap Road is also home to some of the best hiking trails in the Smokies, including the Appalachian Trail. The road culminates at Newfound Gap, a high point where visitors can see for miles in all directions. It is even possible to see seven states from the top of the Newfound Gap on a clear day. Above all, given its beauty and accessibility, it is no wonder that Newfound Gap Road is one of the most popular tourist destinations.
- Newfound Gap is the lowest drivable pass through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- 31 Miles of Incredible Mountain Landscapes
- Charles A Webb Overlook Is Stunning
4. Cades Cove Loop Rd / Scenic Drives In Gatlinburg
By far one of my favorites on this list! Cades Cove Loop Road in Gatlinburg is one of the most popular scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains. The 11-mile loop takes you through a valley that was once home to early settlers. Along the way, you’ll see historic cabins, churches, and mills. You might even spot some wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and black bears. Additionally, the drive is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves are changing color. However, Cades Cove can be crowded during peak tourist season. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Park at the visitors center and take the shuttle bus into the cove. That way, you can just sit back and enjoy the scenery.
- This is the place you want be to see all kinds of wildlife
- 11 miles of stunning scenery
- Highly recommend pulling over and going to Abrams Falls Trail
5. The Tail Of The Dragon / Scenic Drives In Gatlinburg
The Tail of the Dragon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The tail is actually a stretch of Highway 129 that winds through the mountains for 11 miles. The road has more than 300 curves, making it a favorite destination for motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts. However, the Tail of the Dragon is also one of the most dangerous roads in the United States, with an average of one death per year. As a result, visitors are advised to use caution when driving on the Tail of the Dragon. In addition, there are several scenic overlooks along the route, so visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains while staying safe.
- Twist and turns throughout on this amazing motor trail
- 11 miles of engaging curves
- The Tabcat Creek Boat Ramp is pretty for water mountain photos
Location Map
Overview of all the options
Share this list of beautiful drives
There are 384 miles of road in the Smokies. Those who travel these charming roads are mesmerized by the beauty that makes up the Great Smoky Mountains. Meander through landscapes from foothills to mountains. Take one of these drives if you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. Trust us – you won’t regret it! And be sure to share this post with your friends so they can enjoy the scenic routes in Gatlinburg too.
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